My $.02 worth...


[ Follow Ups ] [ Post Followup ] [ Dodge Power Wagon Forum ] [ FAQ ]

Posted by Brian in Oregon on July 30, 1999 at 08:41:19:

In Reply to: Re: '54 M37 3/4T Military to buy or not?????? posted by JWH on July 30, 1999 at 05:17:00:

BUY IT - BUY IT - BUY IT - BUY IT.

I paid $500 for my 1951, but even though the engine runs, the truck had been rolled, so I needed a fender, windshield, hood, and still need both doors. The rest of the truck pretty much survived intact. Brakes are shot. Except for tailgate, truck is totally rust free.

If you want a slick looking civilian model with classic lines, a military rig may not be for you. If you want a military rig, the WWII models are more popular, but the M37's are better. Just paint it for the Korean War and you'll be fine (or not - red seems to be a really popular alternative.)

I think the M37 is THE toughest light truck ever built. Not surprising considering its military lineage and Power Wagon background.

M37 drawbacks. They are about the slowest trucks on the road. The brakes are crummy even when in top condition. I'm going to put 4-wheel disc brakes on mine (www.uglytruck.com/) and am collecting the parts for a Dodge 360 V-8 and short tail shaft 727 swap. I intend to use this as a work truck and want it able to do anything, like pull heavy trailers. If you are just using it for looks, barkdust and gravel fetching and maybe hunting, the 230 will do just fine. Just figure on taking 50% longer to get there than normal.

Advantages - You WILL get looks in the truck anywhere you go, especially with military paint and lettering. And hey, it's a convertible (sort of). Everyone needs a convertible something. The M37 can go almost anywhere. I think someone here figured you'd need $30,000+ and another $5,000 in mods on a modern truck just to come close to making it as offroad worthy as an M37. And, be prepared to make lots of new friends in the M37 and military vehicle (MV) community! Many fine folks out there. The M37 is probably the largest PRACTICAL military vehicle you can own. It can be garaged, and unlike Jeeps, is actually big enough to do work with.

9.00x16 military non-directional bias ply tires will run $110 to $150 new, depending on where you are, the dealer and taxes. Tubes are about $15 - $25 each. Rim liners (you must have them) are $10 - $15 each. Plan on cleaning and painting the rims while they are apart. HAVE A TIRE SHOP THAT WORKS ON TRUCKS BREAK DOWN AND REMOUNT THE TIRES (safety considerations). And if the old tires are cracked and look like they may pop, DO NOT get under the truck in a bad position, in case one lets go. It is possible to actually squat under some areas, like under the bed, so you could be hurt if a tires pops. Better to have new rubber or use an adjustable heavy jackstand for safety.

You'll need a heavy floorjack, and most small ones won't even reach the axle. You'll also need a huge lug wrench. You might consider getting a 3/4 drive breaker bar and the appropriate socket (1 1/2"?? Don't have a lug in front of me.)

Remember, the truck weighs about three tons empty. Always keep that in mind when you work on it.

Buy it and enjoy it!!!



Follow Ups:



Post a Followup

Name:
E-Mail:

Subject:

Comments:

Optional Link URL:
Link Title:
Optional Image URL:


[ Follow Ups ] [ Post Followup ] [ Dodge Power Wagon Forum ] [ FAQ ]